| This Week |
Last Week |
Change |
Team |
| #1 |
1 |
- |
Penrith Panthers
Made yet another statement with a strong victory against the Storm. Their defensive effort was impressive; they limited their opponents to just one try. It was a patient, methodical display on both sides of the ball. The Sea Eagles better be ready for what is ahead in Round 24.
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| #2 |
2 |
- |
Brisbane Broncos
The loss of halfback Adam Reynolds before kick-off failed disrupt them against the Cowboys, still recording a 16-point victory. Such a performance demonstrates the maturity of this team. They appear a genuine chance to compete against the Panthers and host the Eels next week.
|
| #3 |
3 |
- |
New Zealand Warriors
Captured a 10-point win over a spirited Titans team. This is a game previous (and less mature) Warriors teams would’ve lost. Shaun Johnson was at his dynamic best and his form has been impressive. Remain on the ‘road’ to face the Tigers but will be thankful this game takes place in Waikato.
|
| #4 |
6 |
+2 |
Newcastle Knights
Made to work for their 2-point win over the Dolphins but an important result for their Finals hopes. A lot to like about this team moving forward and they are gifted a timely match against the Bulldogs, the team their current 5-game winning streak began against.
|
| #5 |
5 |
- |
Melbourne Storm
Tried hard to compete against the Panthers but were outclassed with a few key players missing. News of Papenhuyzen’s successful return in QLD Cup gives them something to look forward to. They have an extended break before hosting the Raiders on Sunday.
|
| #6 |
4 |
-2 |
South Sydney Rabbitohs
Gave away too many points to the Sharks and couldn’t run them down. Remain inside the Top 8 but need a few wins to solidify their standing on the competition ladder. Remain on the road, taking their home game against the Dragons to Cairns.
|
| #7 |
11 |
+4 |
Cronulla Sharks
Back to winning form in style with a gritty 26-16 win over the Rabbitohs. Their defensive resolve appeared to return in this much-needed performance. Remain inside the Top 8 and head home to face a desperate Titans team. This should be their new standard for the remainder of the year.
|
| #8 |
9 |
+1 |
Parramatta Eels
Defeated the Dragons but were made to work hard for the victory. They are in 9th position courtesy of an inferior points difference and games against lower ranked opponents should offer an opportunity to improve in this area. Consider that performance an opportunity missed.
|
| #9 |
7 |
-2 |
North Queensland Cowboys
Didn’t and couldn’t do enough to grab a victory over the Broncos at home. It wasn’t the result they needed or wanted. Perhaps they have left their run to the Top 8 too late. Several individual players need to step up for their fortunes to turn around.
|
| #10 |
10 |
- |
Canberra Raiders
An unconvincing 4-point victory over the Tigers. Consider this result an opportunity missed to improve upon their -74 point differential. Despite sitting 5th, the Raiders are not a consistent team. Head on the road for a tough match against the Storm.
|
| #11 |
8 |
-3 |
Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles
A 10-point loss to the Roosters was a major dent to their Finals hopes. They were outplayed and were poor defensively. It doesn’t get any easier for them, hosting the Panthers on a short turnaround.
|
| #12 |
14 |
+2 |
Sydney Roosters
Kept their slim Finals hopes alive with a 26-16 victory over the Sea Eagles, with this performance closer to what is expected from the Roosters. Consistency is key and they now host the Dolphins in another ‘must win’ match.
|
| #13 |
13 |
- |
Gold Coast Titans
Brave with one player being sent off for majority of their match against the Warriors. Couldn’t compete for 80 minutes to force the result into their favour. Will be desperate for key players to return as their 2023 campaign slowly slips away.
|
| #14 |
12 |
-2 |
The Dolphins
Tried hard against the Knights but were again let down by their defence. Their attacking spark is something to be admired and it isn’t all bad for this club in their inaugural season. They will want to finish the season on a positive note and face the Roosters in another tricky away match.
|
| #15 |
15 |
- |
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs
Had the Bye in Round 23 and would’ve relished the opportunity to rest ahead of their remaining matches. They are building into 2024 and need positive performances to carry momentum into the preseason.
|
| #16 |
16 |
- |
St George-Illawarra Dragons
Made the Eels work for the victory. Couldn’t turn the positive weight of possession into enough points to capture victory. Some bright sparks but greater consistency is needed. Head north to face the Rabbitohs in Cairns.
|
| #17 |
17 |
- |
Wests Tigers
Couldn’t capitalise against the Raiders but made their opponents work hard for the result. Stuck to the bottom of the ladder but playing far better than they were earlier in the year. They take a home game to New Zealand next week against the Warriors.
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